Chargers knew Cowboys defensive plays

IRVING – The Chargers came into Sunday’s game with the Cowboys holding a competitive edge.

Because Cowboys coach Wade Phillips spent three seasons as the Chargers’ defensive coordinator, San Diego’s offense knew pretty much all of the Cowboys’ defensive schemes and signals.

“They called a couple of the blitzes that we have and the way (inside linebacker) Bradie runs them,” Cowboys inside linebacker Keith Brooking said. “They would call it before we called it.”

Said James, “Rivers was calling out our defenses. They were calling out our line stunts. It was like playing an NFC East game, but even better. That was the most challenging offense we’ve played all year.”